#1 Pencoed House Estate

Pencoed House Estate is a venue steeped in ancient history and folklore, and can count itself as one of the oldest properties in Glamorgan.

Although the estate is thought to have been built in the early fifteenth-century by Jevan ap David, its past can be traced back over half a millennium (some tales suggest it’s even older).

Halloween wedding at Pencoed House Estate in October 2016

In this time, the venue has played host to a Member of Parliament, Sheriffs of the County and descendants of a King of Glamorgan. There are legends that also suggest that it was once the residence of King Arthur and Queen Guinevere.

More whispered rumours exist of the Black Prince once hiding his wife for 4 months in one of the tunnels linked to Pencoed – could this be true?

Halloween wedding at Pencoed House Estate in October 2016

All this history – plus its original cobbled stone walls with torch brackets – give Pencoed House Estate an air of centuries-old mystery.

The photos above and below are from a Halloween wedding in 2016, where romance collided with history; almost like stepping back in time.

With its idyllic grounds, beautiful buildings and majestic archways, it doesn’t take a lot to imagine medieval monarchs strolling around an estate so rich in history. Could we still spot them now?

Halloween wedding at Pencoed House Estate in October 2016

#2 Fonmon Castle

Built in 1180, the ancient Fonmon Castle isn’t just a popular wedding venue, but a throwback to the High Middle Ages in Wales.

Dynasties battled for power across the world while the first medieval universities were founded, and during this time, Fonmon Castle was built.

The exterior of Fonmon Castle

Today, it’s seen as a ‘great architectural rarity’, as it was drastically remodelled during the 18th century but escaped being Gothicised – a hard feat to pull off. Now it towers in the Vale of Glamorgan, wrapped in green, gold, and russet ivy.

Interior dining room at Fonmon Castle, where old meets new

Its interiors have been modernised without losing any of its historical charm. Old books may line the walls, but this is very much a usable and beautiful venue.

One of the 600 original castles in Wales and now one of the 100 still standing, Fonmon Castle transports you to a time long gone in Welsh history.

A wide shot view of the castle, lit up by the sun

#3 Penarth Pier Pavilion

The art deco Penarth Pier Pavilion is a versatile, multi-purpose space, used for cinema viewings, exhibitions, food and drink, and beautiful pier weddings.

Before it became the space it is today, the Victorian-era pier had a long and storied history. It opened in 1898 and instantly became a popular beach-going destination.

A shot of Penarth Pier Pavilion from 2012. Photo credit: Alice Turner

During World War 1, the pier was used as a military base, and the steamer trains – previously used for fun trips from the pier – were used for minesweeping.

The Art Deco pavilion was constructed in 1930, giving the pier the striking appearance it still has today. Unfortunately, tragedy struck in 1931 when a fire broke out in one of the pavilions. 800 people survived, but it cost £3,157 to rebuild the pavilion – this time in concrete, rather than wood.

Taken just a few hours before the 1931 fire. Photo credit: PenarthNews

Until the start of World War II, the pier was used as a cinema, a concert hall, and then as the Marina Ballroom. Again, it was closed to the public and used by the military during the war.

Since then, bad luck has often fated the pier, with ships and steamers colliding into the pier, causing tens of thousands of pounds in damages.

Penarth beach & pier in around 1890-1900

Now, though, the ‘curse’ has been lifted! In 2014, the Pier was awarded ‘Pier of the Year’ by the National Piers Society, and thrives as a community space hosting everything from weddings to a scenic cup of tea on the water.

#4 Caerphilly Castle

Caerphilly Castle is an awe-inspiring figurehead of Welsh history. The second largest castle in Britain (second only to Windsor), and with a tower that leans more than Pisa, Caerphilly Castle is an icon in its own right.

The castle is one of the oldest surviving castles in the medieval Western world. Its construction began in 1268 by Gilbert ‘the Red’ de Clare, who also built the original Castell Coch.

Caerphilly Castle, across one of its artificial lakes

Inside, original features from the castle’s beginnings can still be found.

The 14th century Great Hall still has carved medieval stone in the shape of heads today, possibly depicting the royal court in the 1320s.